The cats of Lamu are the only cats on earth to bear the same physiques as the cats depicted in Egyptian hieroglyphics and statuary. One popular theory suggests that these cats may be the only remaining descendant of a breed of cats only found in ancient Egypt and now extinct in North Africa. Traders may have carried the cats to Lamu on dhows, and they thrived on this island outpost.
The cats are primarily feral. A feral cat is an unowned and untamed cat separated from domestication. There are literally thousands of these cats on the island and they need your help.
The Lamu Animal Welfare Clinic was established to provide medical treatment to cats, and most importantly to implement a spading and neutering program. The clinic is grossly underfunded. I spent some time with veterinarian, Dr. Kevin Sande, who showed me their rudimentary equipment. I was so moved by his herculean efforts with such meager resources that I asked what I could do to help. He said unequivocally that he is in desperate need of a microscope.
As my Christmas Project, I have committed to raising one thousand dollars ($1,000) to purchase a microscope. The Clinic is in great financial need and would appreciate any assistance towards the microscope. Dr. Richarde Traeger, Clinic Director, wrote, “We thank you in advance for your kind interest and for organizing this fundraising for the Clinic. We shall ever be so grateful as a microscope is an indispensable piece of equipment which will assist us greatly.”
I have pledged $100 to get the project underway, so I only need to raise $900! Any contribution amount would be appreciated. Also, I hope that you might help spread the word by passing this message along to your friends.
Please know that contributions will go directly towards the purchase of this important piece of equipment which is essential to veterinary work. In the event we exceed $1,000, then the extra funds will be used to purchase medical supplies.
If you are able to make a contribution via PayPal, or make a check out to me, David April and mail it to 2346 E. Susquehanna Ave., Philadelphia, PA, 19125. Please include your name, address, e-mail address, and phone number. After the funds are raised, I will then send a wire transfer to:
Kenruss Medics Ltd
Prime Bank Limited
Riverside Drive
P.O.Box 43825
00100 Nairobi, Kenya – East Africa
Tel. (+254-20) 4203000 – Fax (+254-20) 4451247
Email: headoffice@primebank.co.ke
Account No: 0801397101 (USD)
My goal is to raise the funds by Christmas, so that the cats of Lamu Island will receive their present in time for the holidays! I will forward all the donor’s names, and contribution amounts to Dr. Richarde Traeger, Director of the Lamu Animal Welfare Clinic. Please let me know if you wish to remain anonymous.
Thank you so much on behalf of the Lamu Island Animal Welfare Clinic.
David April
